When is a Steinway still a Steinway

[Wimblees@aol.com]

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In a message dated 11/18/02 2:58:53 AM !!!First Boot!!!, 
davidlovepianos@earthlink.net writes:

> Several questions arise considering recent discussions about patent 
> infringements, though this takes a slightly different angle.  At what point 
> do changes breach any tacit understandings/agreements about what can be 
> done to a piano and still call it that maker's piano?  Does the technician 
> have any legal or other obligation to adhere to the designers intention, or 
> commit any breach by making such changes?  What is the responsibility to 
> inform customers of such changes (say in a spec situation with a piano for 
> sale)?  Or any other considerations that I have not mentioned, or though 
> of.  These types of changes, I realize, are made all the time.  What 
> obligation do we have as technicians in such situations?  Any other 
> thoughts on the subject would be appreciated.
>   
>  
> David Love
>   
> 

David

If a piano is still under warrantee, then any changes like you mentioned will 
automatically void the warrantee. If any changes are going to be done after 
the warrantee is up, I think the piano can still be called a "Steinway," but 
the customer should be informed what is going to be done, and why. The 
customer will need to approve any changes that going to be made to the piano 
that are different from what the factory did. Not only will it need to be 
explained why these changes are being made, but more importantly, that the 
piano will not be the same as an original Steinway. This is to protect the 
tech in case the customer wants to sell the piano at a later date, and 
another tech claims the piano has been altered, and therefore is not worth as 
much. 

Just my 2 cents worth

Wim 


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